A Fragile Power

This book delves into the complex relationship between scientists and government funding, illustrating how research serves political ends.

In A Fragile Power, Chandra Mukerji explores the intricate relationship between science and government funding, particularly in the context of environmental research. When the National Science Foundation invests in studies of the earth's crust and the Department of Energy backs research on nuclear waste disposal, the expectation is often that these funds will yield immediate benefits or practical applications. However, Mukerji challenges this simplistic view, presenting a more nuanced understanding of how scientific research is conducted and financed in the modern era.

Through vivid examples from the field of oceanography, including recent investigations into seafloor hot springs and the oceanic disposal of nuclear waste, Mukerji raises critical questions about the role of scientists. Rather than merely serving as providers of knowledge for government use, scientists are portrayed as a highly skilled workforce that lends legitimacy to state policies. This dynamic creates a complex interplay of autonomy and dependency, where researchers maintain a semblance of independence while remaining fundamentally reliant on government support.

Mukerji's work is essential for sociologists, students of science, and oceanographers, as well as for any scientist whose research is influenced by governmental funding. By examining the post-World War II landscape, A Fragile Power reveals how the political necessity of science shapes its practice, highlighting the delicate balance between scientific inquiry and state interests. The book, originally published in 1990, is now available again through the Princeton Legacy Library, ensuring that this critical examination of science and society remains accessible to all.